Migrants stranded on the remote Indian Ocean island of Diego Garcia will soon have the opportunity to relocate to the UK, as per a new government proposal. This decision affects approximately 60 Sri Lankan Tamils who have spent over three years in a makeshift camp on the island, which is known for its secretive UK-US military base.
Previously, the UK government opposed relocating these migrants, leading to complex legal battles regarding their status. However, in a recent letter from government lawyers, it was stated that after further consideration, there would be a significant policy change.
The proposal includes:
An official informed one Tamil that this decision was a response to the exceptional circumstances of life on the island and noted that entry into the UK would be for a limited time.
During a daily news briefing at Downing Street, the Prime Minister’s Official Spokesperson acknowledged that the government “inherited a deeply troubling situation” regarding migrants on Diego Garcia. He emphasized that:
“Diego Garcia had clearly never been a suitable long-term location for migrants.”
Lawyers representing the Tamils welcomed this policy shift as a “very welcome step” in their quest for justice. Simon Robinson from Duncan Lewis solicitors said:
“After three years living in inhumane conditions… HMG has now decided that our clients should now come directly to the UK.”
One Tamil expressed disbelief at the news: “It looks like a dream. I don’t know what to think.”
The latest developments follow an announcement regarding the transfer of sovereignty over British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) to Mauritius while maintaining military operations on Diego Garcia.
Legal proceedings revealed plans for three individuals with criminal convictions to be sent to Montserrat, while legal teams fight against claims of unlawful detention for others.
Over the past three years, conditions have worsened on Diego Garcia, with reports of hunger strikes and mental health crises among migrants. One individual shared their feelings after being transferred to Rwanda:
“For three years I have been caged… I feel a bit blank.”
This poignant situation underscores the urgent need for effective solutions that address both humanitarian concerns and legal complexities related to migration.
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